THE RED Cross is calling for volunteers to assist the families of prisoners at Laverton’s Port Phillip Prison.
In a pilot program, volunteers are being sought to provide information and emotional support to families and friends visiting people at the maximum security jail.
Red Cross spokeswoman Leonie Poynter said visiting an imprisoned loved one was a difficult and anxious experience, especially for children.
She said the program would help reduce anxiety and stress for family and friends and could help reduce the number of prisoners who reoffended after release.
“If positive links with the imprisoned family member are supported, that person’s return to the community is more often successful.”
Information sessions will be held at 10am on July 9 and 3pm on July 10 at Red Cross, 23-47 Villiers St, North Melbourne. Volunteers will receive training. For more information call Ms Poynter on 8327 7726 or visit www.redcross.org.au
